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Water

FOSTERING A CULTURE OF SUSTAINABLE WATER MANAGEMENT ON CAMPUS

CULTIVATING RESPONSIBLE WATER USE AND CONSERVATION PRACTICES ON CAMPUS IS OUR COMMITMENT TOWARDS ACHIEVEING SDG 2030.

At USM, we are dedicated to fostering sustainable and integrated water resources management that transcends boundaries. We aim to achieve this by monitoring both water quantity and quality, sharing essential water availability information, and actively engaging local communities. Our mission is to facilitate informed decision-making, protect our valuable water resources, and empower local participation in the stewardship of this vital shared asset. Together, we are shaping a future where responsible water management and community involvement are at the heart of our commitment to a sustainable and resilient environment.


  • Water Consumption Tracking

    USM is committed to sustainable water management across all its campuses by employing a variety of strategies, including the use of mains-supplied, extracted, and desalinated water. The university actively measures the total volume of water used across the entire institution—encompassing all facilities and operations—to ensure responsible consumption and efficient management. These efforts are part of USM’s broader sustainability initiatives aimed at reducing water wastage, optimizing resource utilization, and supporting the university’s environmental goals

    1. Mains Supply: USM carefully manages water from the mains supply to ensure optimal usage and minimize wastage throughout its campuses.

    2. Desalinated Water: The desalination system at USM purifies brackish and seawater to produce potable water, thereby reducing the strain on natural freshwater sources while ensuring minimal environmental impact. Desalination methods include:

    • Electrodialysis (ED
    • Reverse Osmosis (RO)
    • Treatment Stages:
      • Flocculation, Oxygenation, Sedimentation, Storage, and Suction tanks

    3. Extracted Water: USM extracts water from lakes, rainwater harvesting tanks, and tube wells, utilizing these resources for various purposes:

    Sustainable water extraction

    Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Engineering Campus utilizes innovative and sustainable water extraction technologies that align with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, focusing on clean water and sanitation. A central component of this initiative is the BIOECODS (Bio-Ecological Drainage System), which serves as a stormwater runoff catchment and treatment area integrated into the campus environment.

    The BIOECODS system collects stormwater runoff from various parts of the campus, storing it in a recreational pond. This non-potable water is then pumped to physical laboratories for hydraulic studies, such as open channel tests, supporting the campus’s academic and research activities. After being used in these experiments, the water is recycled through a pump-driven system and returned to the pond for reuse. This cyclical process minimizes water wastage and reduces the need for fresh water extraction, supporting sustainable practices within the campus environment.

    In addition to its use on campus, USM extends this technology to off-campus applications. By leveraging BIOECODS, USM has contributed to community initiatives and external projects that focus on sustainable water management, particularly in non-potable water use. This integration helps reduce the reliance on treated water resources in surrounding areas and demonstrates USM’s role in promoting eco-friendly water management practices beyond the campus.

    By employing stormwater instead of extracting water from aquifers, lakes, or rivers, USM’s BIOECODS system provides a sustainable solution that reduces environmental impact both on and off campus. This innovative approach highlights USM’s commitment to sustainable water extraction technologies, contributing to broader resource conservation efforts and supporting Malaysia’s progress towards achieving SDG 6.

    BIOECODS

  • Responsible Water Usage and Care

    Wastewater Treatment

    USM always ensures the management of a well-organized and efficient sewage system to produce high-quality effluent and minimize environmental pollution, in line with the campus sustainability aspects. Monthly testing of the final effluent is conducted to ensure that the effluent released into the drainage system complies with the established standards. Below are the wastewater treatment process practices by USM:

    1. The wastewater from the buildings in campus will flow into the Sewage Treatment Plant  through the sewage pipe system
    2. The screening process to prevent waste and unnecessary materials, such as plastic bottles, from entering the Sewage Treatment Plant.
    3. The sludge settling process occurs at the bottom of the tank, while the floating scum rises to the surface of the tank.
    4. The solid waste in the sewage water will be in a suspended state, and bacteria in the sewage will break down organic materials. This aeration process takes approximately 18 to 24 hours.
    5. Next is the process of removing sludge from wastewater to ensure that the effluent released meets the standards.
    6. The properly treated wastewater will be discharged into the existing drainage system. Testing will be conducted on a monthly basis

    BIOECODS: Preventing Pollution in Water Systems

    The Bio-Ecological Drainage System (BIOECODS) at Universiti Sains Malaysia is an innovative approach to managing stormwater runoff and preventing polluted water from entering the university's water system. This system plays a vital role in maintaining water quality on campus.

    Key processes of BIOECODS:

    Stormwater Management: BIOECODS implements best management practices that focus on treating stormwater runoff at its source. By capturing and treating rainwater before it enters the drainage system, the risk of polluted runoff—especially from accidents or spills—is significantly reduced.
    Natural Filtration Systems: The incorporation of vegetated swales and constructed wetlands allows for the natural filtration of contaminants. These systems are designed to remove pollutants, sediments, and nutrients from stormwater, effectively minimizing the potential for water pollution.
    Pollution Control Mechanisms: In cases of accidental spills or incidents, BIOECODS features mechanisms that attenuate peak flows, giving contaminants time to settle or be broken down biologically before the water is released into the environment.
    Regular Monitoring and Maintenance: To ensure effectiveness, BIOECODS is subject to regular monitoring and maintenance. The adaptable nature of the system allows for adjustments in response to specific pollution incidents, helping maintain high water quality standards.

    Through the implementation of BIOECODS, Universiti Sains Malaysia is taking proactive steps to ensure the quality of its water resources while promoting sustainable practices. This innovative system exemplifies the university's commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible water management.

    Water-Conscious Building Guidelines

    USM applies building standards to minimize water usage through various initiatives. One of the key efforts includes the installation of Water Saving Devices (WSD) in its buildings, such as dual-flush cisterns, press-button basin taps, and urinal bowls with flush valves. These devices are part of USM’s broader strategy to enhance water management efficiency on campus. Additionally, USM has implemented Non-Revenue Water (NRW) management programs to reduce water loss and monitor water usage effectively by installing meters in all buildings​.

    Water-Conscious Planting: Sustainable Landscaping to Minimise Water Usage

    USM promotes water-conscious planting as part of its sustainability initiatives, minimizing water usage across its campuses by incorporating drought-tolerant plants into its landscape. Under the University in a Garden concept, USM creates a garden-like environment that fosters a deep appreciation for nature while reducing resource consumption. This approach includes planting water-efficient species such as Atas Eugenia Oleana, Pandanus sp., Ixora sp., and banana circles, which require minimal care and water once established.

    Additionally, USM's School of Industrial Technology supports sustainable practices like composting, grass-cycling, and mulching, contributing to water-conscious planting under the Bukit TI Project, aligning with SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). On the Engineering Campus, the REDAC initiative uses phytoremediation through plant species such as Typha augustifolia, Lepironia articulata, and Hanguana malayana in bio-retention systems and ponds, improving water quality and supporting stormwater management. These integrated efforts reflect USM’s commitment to sustainable water management and conservation across all campuses.

    6.3.5 waterConsious

     

  • Our University's Dedication to Water Reuse

    Water Reuse Policy

    USM Sustainability Action Plan has been adopted to highlight the USM Sustainability Policy and procedures on water, energy, health, agricultural, biodiversity and ecosystem management, and climate change and disaster risk management, that have been conceptualised to meet the priorities of national and local needs.  

    According to the action plan, USM aims to integrate sustainable water management plan in campus, with the following vision and missions:

    • By 2030, 30% reduction in water bills.
    • By 2030, 30% use of harvested rainwater for campus toilets.
    • By 2030, 100% use of harvested rainwater for gardening.
    • By 2030, 70% reduction of missing water in campus.
    • By 2030, sustainable water management is integrated in campus. 

    Water Reuse Measurement

    At Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), we prioritize sustainable water management by reusing water across various facilities. The total volume of water reused at USM is approximately 400,500 liters, contributing to significant water conservation efforts

    6.4.2 waterReuseMeasure

    The Haemodialysis Unit at the Health Campus reuses approximately 270,000 liters of water per month. This water, which is filtered through a reverse osmosis machine, is typically discarded during the dialysis process. However, USM has found a way to reuse this high-purity water, ensuring it meets all biochemical and bacteriological standards for safe use.

    Through these measures, USM continues to enhance water conservation practices in line with its Sustainability Policy, focusing on efficient resource management and environmental responsibility.

    Water Reuse Approaches

    At Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), water reuse initiatives are being implemented in various capacities to address the growing global water crisis and promote sustainable resource management. Below are the key approaches being adopted:

    Reuse of Reverse Osmosis (RO) Wastewater from Haemodialysis: The Haemodialysis Unit at USM Health Campus reuses wastewater generated from its reverse osmosis machines. These machines produce high-quality water for dialysis, but approximately 60-70% of the source water is discarded during the process. This reject water is now being reused in aquaponics and horticulture projects. The water, rich in nutrients, is piped to fish tanks and hydroponic systems where it supports the breeding of fish (such as tilapia) and the growth of various vegetables like bok choy, corn, and cauliflower. This project not only conserves water but also promotes environmental sustainability by reducing the unit's carbon footprint, creating a sustainable food source, and fostering a sense of shared responsibility among staff and patients.

    Rainwater Harvesting: At the main USM campus, rainwater harvesting systems have been installed, enabling the reuse of rainwater for various applications. This effort contributes to reducing dependency on treated water and promotes water conservation.

    These innovative approaches showcase USM’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable water management, ensuring a greener and more responsible future.

    6.4.1 waterReuse

BUILT ENVIRONMENT

In USM, the built environment emphasizes eco-friendly construction, energy-efficient facilities, and green spaces, fostering a sustainable and conducive campus atmosphere.

WATER

USM prioritizes responsible water use and conservation. We employ water-saving technologies and promote conservation practices, engaging the campus community through education and awareness campaigns.

WASTE

USM emphasizes waste minimization and recycling. Our efforts include recycling facilities, awareness campaigns, and collaborations for proper waste management.

ENERGY

USM prioritizes energy sustainability through efficiency and renewable sources. As part of our effort to reduce carbon emissions, we adopt energy-saving tech, lighting, and solar panels.

CLIMATE CHANGE

USM is dedicated to climate change mitigation and adaptation. We integrate climate topics into our curriculum, conduct research, and organize awareness campaigns, seminars, and workshops.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

USM prioritizes sustainability through health and well-being initiatives by promoting physical and mental health, offering recreational facilities, and fostering a holistic and sustainable campus community.

BIODIVERSITY & ECOSYSTEM

USM emphasizes biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management in conducting research, collaborating with stakeholders, integrating biodiversity education, and practicing sustainable land use.

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